Jodi Stone's Blog, page 2
December 13, 2012
A Christmas Short by Jodi Stone/Lil' Anchors Sleigh Ride
A Sleigh Ride with the Stone Sisters and the Lil' Anchors...
Once upon a time, in a land not too far away, three young sisters were getting ready for the day.
It was not just any day, but a special day indeed. Christmas Eve was the day, but the day seemed filled with greed.
Savannah, Alexis and Brooke woke up with such excitement about the day ahead.
The tree was lit, the stockings hung of yellow, green and red.
Savannah walked over to her stocking, and gave it quite a look.
"Why is it empty?" she said while tugging on the stocking's hook.
Brooke told Savannah that it was only Christmas Eve, and the stockings would be filled that night.
This fact did not appease Savannah, and she still felt something was not right.
"Well, I want presents and I want them now!" Savannah said with a frown.
But no matter what anyone said, disappointment found the young girl jumping up and down.
Cocoa and candy canes however, provided temporary ease.
Christmas music filled the Stone house and each girl soon felt appeased.
The girls decorated a gingerbread house, and built a snowman in the snow.
But some things don't last for three young girls, and soon Savannah's greed began to grow.
Time again found Savannah looking under the tree, "why are there no presents under there for me?"
Brooke and Alexis rubbed their heads and tried to explain why presents she did not see.
But just as they sat down near the fireplace, a look of fear soon took over on Savannah's face.
A light flickered near, and not a child could speak a word. They froze from what was near, and the noise that they heard.
A tiny little elf appeared and was dressed in green and red. Savannah held onto her sister’s hands while shaking her head.
"Who are you?" Brooke spoke up, but still could not believe her eyes.
"I am Elle, the Elf, and I've come to take you on a magic ride."
The girls still held hands tightly, and followed the trusty one. Though they might not have known it, an adventure had begun.
Elle held up a special bag, and sprinkled a magic dust, but what it was they could not say.
Then in a flash, the girls weren't in their house, but found themselves within a sleigh.
Why they trusted an elf in the first place, they did not know. Yet somehow each girl felt at ease as they lifted off the snow.
The elf knew the girls better than they knew themselves. She explained she'd always been their elf, and usually hid within their shelves.
Her job was to watch over the girls all the year through. Then she took them to their first destination, and it was a house that no-one knew.
Elle explained that they would not be seen as they tiptoed inside. She said they had the magic dust upon them and would for the entire ride.
The house was dark and a little gloomy, and there was no tree in sight. They wondered why there wereas no tree or Christmas decorations on such an important night.
Then a little girl they noticed lying on the couch nearby. A dried tear they also noticed took its' place below her eye.
Elle explained this family was a family in need. They could not afford a tree this year, but did not live a life of greed.
Santa wanted Elle and the Stone girls to deliver a special toy, to this little girl, so when she woke up she could feel the Christmas joy.
Savannah looked around and noticed not a toy in sight. She began to cry and truly felt that something was not quite right.
"How can she have no toys?" Savannah said feeling very sad. "I wish I could give her mine, and then I wouldn't feel so bad."
The elf and the girls placed the toy beside the young girl. And before they could blink again, the dust found each girl in a magic whirl.
Elle and the girls were back in the sleigh, and the girls thanked Elle for the ride as they were again on their way.
Elle noticed Savannah wiping away another tear. She asked the young girl why she was so sad, and making sure it wasn't fear.
Savannah looked at Elle and decided to explain. Her heart felt sad, as the tears tried to refrain.
"I felt so sad for that little girl because she didn't have a tree. She only got one present, and I don't know how that could be."
Brooke and Alexis held their little sister with all of their might. Then before they knew it, again they saw a light. But this light was different;, it was coming from a book. The book said, "The meaning of Christmas," so the girls all took a look.
Elle explained to Savannah about the meaning of the day. Elle had watched Savannah pout earlier that morning because she hadn't gotten her way.
"You see, Savannah...I wanted to make sure that you understood, that the true meaning of Christmas isn't about being bad or good. It's about living a life full of love and not of greed, and giving to the ones that we feel are in need.
An empty stocking made you sad and now I have no doubt, that you see how much you do have, and that you can go without."
Then in a flash they were back at the Stone house. Savannah needed to get something, but was as quiet as a mouse.
Savannah's sisters were confused , but tried to understand. She ran to her room for a moment, but returned with something in her hand.
It was a new teddy bear, and she smiled and handed to the elf. "I want you to take this to that girl. It is brand new, and just sat upon my shelf. I can do without, and this will be a good start. Please take it to her Elle;, it will make me feel good in my heart."
Elle smiled and agreed, and they piled back into the sleigh. Another sprinkle of dust and they all were on their way. Savannah knew deep inside that she had a new goal, but before she could share it, they realized they were at the North Pole.
Savannah, Brooke and Alexis all saw another incredible sight...but to hear what they saw you must wait...just sit tight.
The story, as you see, will not completely unfold until you hear two other’s stories...two more that must unfold. So continue listening, and on the seventh day...you will learn of a surprise that unfolded all from Santa's sleigh.
...to be continued...
(For the next story...by Wendy Nystrom, stay tuned to the Lil' Anchors Sleigh Ride and I'll post here the link as well on that day!)
Once upon a time, in a land not too far away, three young sisters were getting ready for the day.
It was not just any day, but a special day indeed. Christmas Eve was the day, but the day seemed filled with greed.
Savannah, Alexis and Brooke woke up with such excitement about the day ahead.
The tree was lit, the stockings hung of yellow, green and red.
Savannah walked over to her stocking, and gave it quite a look.
"Why is it empty?" she said while tugging on the stocking's hook.
Brooke told Savannah that it was only Christmas Eve, and the stockings would be filled that night.
This fact did not appease Savannah, and she still felt something was not right.
"Well, I want presents and I want them now!" Savannah said with a frown.
But no matter what anyone said, disappointment found the young girl jumping up and down.
Cocoa and candy canes however, provided temporary ease.
Christmas music filled the Stone house and each girl soon felt appeased.
The girls decorated a gingerbread house, and built a snowman in the snow.
But some things don't last for three young girls, and soon Savannah's greed began to grow.
Time again found Savannah looking under the tree, "why are there no presents under there for me?"
Brooke and Alexis rubbed their heads and tried to explain why presents she did not see.
But just as they sat down near the fireplace, a look of fear soon took over on Savannah's face.
A light flickered near, and not a child could speak a word. They froze from what was near, and the noise that they heard.
A tiny little elf appeared and was dressed in green and red. Savannah held onto her sister’s hands while shaking her head.
"Who are you?" Brooke spoke up, but still could not believe her eyes.
"I am Elle, the Elf, and I've come to take you on a magic ride."
The girls still held hands tightly, and followed the trusty one. Though they might not have known it, an adventure had begun.
Elle held up a special bag, and sprinkled a magic dust, but what it was they could not say.
Then in a flash, the girls weren't in their house, but found themselves within a sleigh.
Why they trusted an elf in the first place, they did not know. Yet somehow each girl felt at ease as they lifted off the snow.
The elf knew the girls better than they knew themselves. She explained she'd always been their elf, and usually hid within their shelves.
Her job was to watch over the girls all the year through. Then she took them to their first destination, and it was a house that no-one knew.
Elle explained that they would not be seen as they tiptoed inside. She said they had the magic dust upon them and would for the entire ride.
The house was dark and a little gloomy, and there was no tree in sight. They wondered why there wereas no tree or Christmas decorations on such an important night.
Then a little girl they noticed lying on the couch nearby. A dried tear they also noticed took its' place below her eye.
Elle explained this family was a family in need. They could not afford a tree this year, but did not live a life of greed.
Santa wanted Elle and the Stone girls to deliver a special toy, to this little girl, so when she woke up she could feel the Christmas joy.
Savannah looked around and noticed not a toy in sight. She began to cry and truly felt that something was not quite right.
"How can she have no toys?" Savannah said feeling very sad. "I wish I could give her mine, and then I wouldn't feel so bad."
The elf and the girls placed the toy beside the young girl. And before they could blink again, the dust found each girl in a magic whirl.
Elle and the girls were back in the sleigh, and the girls thanked Elle for the ride as they were again on their way.
Elle noticed Savannah wiping away another tear. She asked the young girl why she was so sad, and making sure it wasn't fear.
Savannah looked at Elle and decided to explain. Her heart felt sad, as the tears tried to refrain.
"I felt so sad for that little girl because she didn't have a tree. She only got one present, and I don't know how that could be."
Brooke and Alexis held their little sister with all of their might. Then before they knew it, again they saw a light. But this light was different;, it was coming from a book. The book said, "The meaning of Christmas," so the girls all took a look.
Elle explained to Savannah about the meaning of the day. Elle had watched Savannah pout earlier that morning because she hadn't gotten her way.
"You see, Savannah...I wanted to make sure that you understood, that the true meaning of Christmas isn't about being bad or good. It's about living a life full of love and not of greed, and giving to the ones that we feel are in need.
An empty stocking made you sad and now I have no doubt, that you see how much you do have, and that you can go without."
Then in a flash they were back at the Stone house. Savannah needed to get something, but was as quiet as a mouse.
Savannah's sisters were confused , but tried to understand. She ran to her room for a moment, but returned with something in her hand.
It was a new teddy bear, and she smiled and handed to the elf. "I want you to take this to that girl. It is brand new, and just sat upon my shelf. I can do without, and this will be a good start. Please take it to her Elle;, it will make me feel good in my heart."
Elle smiled and agreed, and they piled back into the sleigh. Another sprinkle of dust and they all were on their way. Savannah knew deep inside that she had a new goal, but before she could share it, they realized they were at the North Pole.
Savannah, Brooke and Alexis all saw another incredible sight...but to hear what they saw you must wait...just sit tight.
The story, as you see, will not completely unfold until you hear two other’s stories...two more that must unfold. So continue listening, and on the seventh day...you will learn of a surprise that unfolded all from Santa's sleigh.
...to be continued...
(For the next story...by Wendy Nystrom, stay tuned to the Lil' Anchors Sleigh Ride and I'll post here the link as well on that day!)
November 27, 2012
The roads we travel...journey of Author Wendy Nystrom
I have been traveling this journey called "writing" for awhile now, and am very happy with the path I am on. You see, my path was not always an easy one towards the road to publication. There were plenty of rejections, and some brutal. But something kept pushing me, and here I am with the greatest publisher in the world...Anchor Group Publishing. I might not have turned down Anchor Group's avenue though if it weren't for the blessings of Author Wendy Nystrom. I believe in fate, and that the writing Gods brought my path to cross over that of Wendy's. You see, Wendy and I met about two years ago while her book was at a different publisher and where I still have several titles. We crossed paths, as Wendy was always so encouraging to my writing. I read the stories she had there too, and fell in love with her writing style and her characters, and thus a new friendship was born. Wendy and I continued communicating our writing dilemmas. You see, Wendy suggested that I send my material to another group she had discovered and heard great things about, Anchor Group. I had come to value her opinion, and so I did just that...worked on a new book and submitted it. After acceptance for publication to Anchor Group came...I was thrilled. I looked up the website before submitting and was so happy with what I had seen. There was a variety of authors, and their books looked terrific. Not only that, but Anchor Group was gaining a strong lead in the publishing world. After I signed a contract, Wendy decided to join Anchor Group as well, and here we are again at Anchor Group, but I assure you, happier than ever.
It's not everyday that you meet another author...one who will support your own writing as much as their own...one who will inspire you...one who will become not just an acquaintance or co-worker of sorts, but one you can truly call friend. So I say with pride to the writing world, Wendy Nystrom is funny, witty, intelligent, and extremely creative. If you don't read her books, join her blog...you are guaranteed to miss out on a laugh, a smile...a journey to imagination.
I loved Wendy's writing even before I could call her friend, so I promise I am not bias. Okay, I'm a little bias, but read her work and you'll see why.
Wendy's first release is the children's book entitled, 'James Saves the Moon' and is about a young boy named James who takes a truly magical journey while meeting wonderful friends that will last a lifetime. Set in Iceland, the journey takes unexpected leaps and bounds, but who wouldn't love to take a trip to the moon? The writing style is so strong, you will feel like you are truly on that magical trip with James and each character that is introduced throughout. Please read and I am sure you will love it as I do! H
Here's where you can find Wendy and more information about her books:
http://wendysbookcase.com/2012/11/17/...
http://www.amazon.com/James-Saves-the...
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
http://www.facebook.com/Wendysbookcase
It's not everyday that you meet another author...one who will support your own writing as much as their own...one who will inspire you...one who will become not just an acquaintance or co-worker of sorts, but one you can truly call friend. So I say with pride to the writing world, Wendy Nystrom is funny, witty, intelligent, and extremely creative. If you don't read her books, join her blog...you are guaranteed to miss out on a laugh, a smile...a journey to imagination.
I loved Wendy's writing even before I could call her friend, so I promise I am not bias. Okay, I'm a little bias, but read her work and you'll see why.
Wendy's first release is the children's book entitled, 'James Saves the Moon' and is about a young boy named James who takes a truly magical journey while meeting wonderful friends that will last a lifetime. Set in Iceland, the journey takes unexpected leaps and bounds, but who wouldn't love to take a trip to the moon? The writing style is so strong, you will feel like you are truly on that magical trip with James and each character that is introduced throughout. Please read and I am sure you will love it as I do! H
Here's where you can find Wendy and more information about her books:
http://wendysbookcase.com/2012/11/17/...
http://www.amazon.com/James-Saves-the...
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
http://www.facebook.com/Wendysbookcase
An Interview with Author, Mammy Oaklee
I am a huge believer in many things: I believe in the love and grace of family. I believe in the courage found by human strength in the daintiest of situations. I believe in fairies and all things magical though unseen to the naked eye. I believe utmost in the importance of the bond between family and friends. So when I find a book that inspires me and the faith I so strongly believe in, I must share. I not only must share said book, but feel somehow inspired to share the author and their backstory as well. You see, as an author and avid reader, I feel a connection to a book can become even stronger when the story of the author is told, so with that I introduce a new author, Mammy Oaklee.
I first read Mammy's book, 'The Mailbox Kitten' about a month or so ago. I re-read it again (something I don't do often) immediately after the first read, and then read it to my children that evening. 'The Mailbox Kitten' is such a touching story, set on a farm where a family is learning different lessons including that of love, laughter, loss and everyday heroes. Based on an actual event, this story touched me in different ways. I felt drawn to the setting, as I am a country girl at heart. The language the author uses is friendly, and truly makes you feel as if though you're traveling on this journey with the family. I definitely recommend anyone with children or grandchildren pick up this lovely read, as I'm sure you'll love it as much as I do!
After reading the book several times, I was inspired to contact the author for some background information to learn more about how this lovely book was derived.
Mammy Oaklee strives for a life of peace and love for both her and her family. She always had a desire to write, even from a young age when she first began writing pen-pals. After that, Mammy began writing to the elderly...those who were unable to get around much due to health, and though at first she had no idea if those letters were being seen, she did it out of a pure heart and love. After some time, Mammy learned that not only were those letters being received, but that the elderly who received them counted on them.
This brought new life to Mammy's writing and desire to become an author. As time went on, Mammy eventually wrote this lovely book, 'The Mailbox Kitten' and tells all about the "crazy-fun loving family and life on the Heart of Bottoms Up 2/3 Acre."
Family and life provides daily inspiration for all of Mammy's writings, and she is currently working on two more books as well as her first novel.
For those avid lovers of the written word, I highly recommend this book and following along with the author on her writing journey. To follow her links...see below...
Website: http://mammyoaklee.wix.com/heartofthe...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mammy.oaklee
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Heart-...
blog: http://mammyoaklee.wordpress.com/
pinterest: http://pinterest.com/mammyoaklee
I first read Mammy's book, 'The Mailbox Kitten' about a month or so ago. I re-read it again (something I don't do often) immediately after the first read, and then read it to my children that evening. 'The Mailbox Kitten' is such a touching story, set on a farm where a family is learning different lessons including that of love, laughter, loss and everyday heroes. Based on an actual event, this story touched me in different ways. I felt drawn to the setting, as I am a country girl at heart. The language the author uses is friendly, and truly makes you feel as if though you're traveling on this journey with the family. I definitely recommend anyone with children or grandchildren pick up this lovely read, as I'm sure you'll love it as much as I do!
After reading the book several times, I was inspired to contact the author for some background information to learn more about how this lovely book was derived.
Mammy Oaklee strives for a life of peace and love for both her and her family. She always had a desire to write, even from a young age when she first began writing pen-pals. After that, Mammy began writing to the elderly...those who were unable to get around much due to health, and though at first she had no idea if those letters were being seen, she did it out of a pure heart and love. After some time, Mammy learned that not only were those letters being received, but that the elderly who received them counted on them.
This brought new life to Mammy's writing and desire to become an author. As time went on, Mammy eventually wrote this lovely book, 'The Mailbox Kitten' and tells all about the "crazy-fun loving family and life on the Heart of Bottoms Up 2/3 Acre."
Family and life provides daily inspiration for all of Mammy's writings, and she is currently working on two more books as well as her first novel.
For those avid lovers of the written word, I highly recommend this book and following along with the author on her writing journey. To follow her links...see below...
Website: http://mammyoaklee.wix.com/heartofthe...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mammy.oaklee
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Heart-...
blog: http://mammyoaklee.wordpress.com/
pinterest: http://pinterest.com/mammyoaklee
October 27, 2012
Stone Sisters' Mini-Adventures
Stone Sisters' Mini-Adventures
Stories of circus's and tales unfold, yet not all events of some circuses are told. It's time to set one record straight, and that is the Stone sister’s trip to the circus on one particular date.
The girls were afraid to see a bear or a lion, and young Savannah was so scared that she couldn't stop cryin'.
They held hands and walked underneath the colorful tent, and were thankful to have their parents with them at this event.
Seats were aligned and the smell of popcorn filled the air, and to most young children the circus would not bring a scare.
Yet Brooke, Alexis and Savannah felt nothing but fear. Each face held remnants of not a smile but a tear.
Lions and tigers were the first act in the show. Monkeys followed suit, and the lights were all aglow.
Savannah was so nervous -she had to go to the bathroom. She could not hold it! she had to go soon!
So the three little sisters walked out each holding hands, and they stepped over the crowd and made it through the stands.
No door was marked as a restroom, so they had to guess where to go. No one was sad they were missing the show.
So Alexis pushed open a door that looked right, but inside of the room it was lacking a light.
Brooke soon followed and they all looked around, but no sign of a restroom could be found.
Finally, Savannah spotted a light in disguise, but what they saw made each girl rub their eyes.
It was a carousel and a beautiful one too. It was shiny and made up of colors red, yellow and blue.
Not a word was said, but they all were thinking the same thing. Let's take a ride on this enormous thing.
They hopped on the carousel one by one. They would just ride a moment, Oh this would be fun!
The carousel started moving so fast. Spinning and whirling, how long could they last?
They just kept spinning, and all felt confused. Each girl was thrown off, yet none of them bruised.
Not a bump or a bruise, they all seemed okay, until a loud growl was heard coming their way.
Then they heard the growl of another, now each girl felt scared and they wanted their mother!
Suddenly, an enormous bear's eyes appeared. Yet it sounded like more than one bear, oh this they all feared!
The eyes came closer- first one set, then two. Their hearts were pounding so fast...what were they to do?
As they all huddled together and were trying to think, three bears appeared in tutus of pink.
The girls shrugged their heads and said, "You’re ballerina bears?"
Then the bears jumped back and tried to hide behind chairs.
"Why are you scared of us?" Brooke wondered as she said,
"We are scared of you," she stated while shaking her head.
The bears crept out slowly while fluffing their dresses and began to twirl like ballerinas while fixing their brown tresses.
The girls realized they had nothing to fear, and as it turned out the bears had hearts that were so dear.
They all felt at ease and realized everything would be okay as Brooke said,
Come on everyone, let's go back to the circus. Let's go this way."
They each hopped back onto the carousel one by one and were realizing the circus was nothing but fun.
Yet as soon as the carousel began to spin, another shocking surprise appeared again...(To be continued tomorrow by Author Wendy Nystrom)...Don't forget to stop back by the Halloween event later today for my game and book giveaway!!!
Stories of circus's and tales unfold, yet not all events of some circuses are told. It's time to set one record straight, and that is the Stone sister’s trip to the circus on one particular date.
The girls were afraid to see a bear or a lion, and young Savannah was so scared that she couldn't stop cryin'.
They held hands and walked underneath the colorful tent, and were thankful to have their parents with them at this event.
Seats were aligned and the smell of popcorn filled the air, and to most young children the circus would not bring a scare.
Yet Brooke, Alexis and Savannah felt nothing but fear. Each face held remnants of not a smile but a tear.
Lions and tigers were the first act in the show. Monkeys followed suit, and the lights were all aglow.
Savannah was so nervous -she had to go to the bathroom. She could not hold it! she had to go soon!
So the three little sisters walked out each holding hands, and they stepped over the crowd and made it through the stands.
No door was marked as a restroom, so they had to guess where to go. No one was sad they were missing the show.
So Alexis pushed open a door that looked right, but inside of the room it was lacking a light.
Brooke soon followed and they all looked around, but no sign of a restroom could be found.
Finally, Savannah spotted a light in disguise, but what they saw made each girl rub their eyes.
It was a carousel and a beautiful one too. It was shiny and made up of colors red, yellow and blue.
Not a word was said, but they all were thinking the same thing. Let's take a ride on this enormous thing.
They hopped on the carousel one by one. They would just ride a moment, Oh this would be fun!
The carousel started moving so fast. Spinning and whirling, how long could they last?
They just kept spinning, and all felt confused. Each girl was thrown off, yet none of them bruised.
Not a bump or a bruise, they all seemed okay, until a loud growl was heard coming their way.
Then they heard the growl of another, now each girl felt scared and they wanted their mother!
Suddenly, an enormous bear's eyes appeared. Yet it sounded like more than one bear, oh this they all feared!
The eyes came closer- first one set, then two. Their hearts were pounding so fast...what were they to do?
As they all huddled together and were trying to think, three bears appeared in tutus of pink.
The girls shrugged their heads and said, "You’re ballerina bears?"
Then the bears jumped back and tried to hide behind chairs.
"Why are you scared of us?" Brooke wondered as she said,
"We are scared of you," she stated while shaking her head.
The bears crept out slowly while fluffing their dresses and began to twirl like ballerinas while fixing their brown tresses.
The girls realized they had nothing to fear, and as it turned out the bears had hearts that were so dear.
They all felt at ease and realized everything would be okay as Brooke said,
Come on everyone, let's go back to the circus. Let's go this way."
They each hopped back onto the carousel one by one and were realizing the circus was nothing but fun.
Yet as soon as the carousel began to spin, another shocking surprise appeared again...(To be continued tomorrow by Author Wendy Nystrom)...Don't forget to stop back by the Halloween event later today for my game and book giveaway!!!
October 6, 2012
My mama
Oh, how I am missing my mama lately. This is nothing new. I miss her when I get sick. I miss her when something good or bad happens and crave her voice. But lately, with so much going on I find myself longing for her rational voice. It's a big time in my life. I am just weeks shy of graduating from college. To some this might seem minor, but for me it is an accomplishment I find hard putting into words. You see, I took classes here and there after high school while working. But I never really thought I'd found my nitch. I was working a pretty good job at Bank of America and taking a class at the local community college when I'd had a bad day at work and went home. I'll never forget this day because it was the day I was told I was being transferred to a branch over an hour away. I felt lost. I knew I didn't want to spend my life in banking, yet I was still uncertain where my path would lead. It wasn't long after this transfer that I met Jon. Jon was funny and cute, and though I didn't know it immediately, he would be the man I'd end up marrying. I laugh saying "man" because looking back we were so young, but so crazy for one another. After not quite a year of dating, Jon joined the Navy and our whirlwind relationship began. It didn't take long for us to realize we wanted to be together forever, and thus...we were soon engaged and planning our wedding. I was only 21, but knew I'd be with this man for the rest of my life. After we were married, I moved to Virginia from Florida to be with him. I'd never left home, and although leaving the comforts of my job, my home and my parents was scary, I was a young girl on an adventure and somehow knew I'd be okay because of Jon. I was right. I moved to Virginia, was transferred into the bank up there and we settled into our cozy little apartment. Before too much time had passed, we found ourselves celebrating our first year of marriage, and I decided to go back to school. I signed up for classes, but it wasn't long into the program that I got sick. Thinking I was just nauseuous, we went to the hospital and found out soon after that our first baby girl would soon follow. Time passed, and as Jon was a Sailor, not much time for school was made easy. I continued working at the bank until Brooke was born, and then stayed at home with her...another major life change. I'd been working for the bank for five years, and found a totally different way of life in being a mother. Though it was a huge transition, it was one I loved. I couldn't believe God had blessed us with this tiny miracle. After four years of Naval service, Jon did not re-enlist. He knew and I knew we wanted to be a tight-nitched family, and in part of doing that we decided to move back to Florida near our families. I'm so grateful for that. The day after Jon got out of the Navy, he found out his stepmother had a brain tumor. Jon got to spend time with her that he might not have had if he had joined the Navy for another four years. We talked about me working, and time found me working at Disney in the Reservations Department. I decided that Brooke was old enough for me to put in daycare part time, and it was also time for me to make my way back to school. Signing up for one class I knew wasn't much, but it was one step closer to where I was meant to be. Soon after I was done with that class, I was preparing to sign up for another when we found out we were pregnant again. Though God had different plans for that sweet baby, and an unfortunate miscarriage pursued. It was an awful time. Nothing seemed important anymore. I had a serious grieving time, and Jon did too. But we soon would carry on and life continued. When I found out I was pregnant with my second daughter, I was scared to death. Any pain or cramp I felt brought memories of the baby we'd lost back to the forefront. My mama got really sick at this time too, and I again found myself putting school on the backburner. Mama was in the hospital for five weeks and almost died then. I'll never forget her telling me that on the way in the ambulance, her heart stopped and all she remembered was seeing her mama and a light, and her mama telling her it wasn't her time yet. Her mama, my grandmama would be right. I still get chills thinking of that. It wasn't her time, and I was grateful she was there to see the birth of my second daughter, Alexis months later. Time found happiness though ups and downs for Jon and I. We struggled through births and losses of loved ones, and jobs and other stresses everyone faces. But we were always one anothers rocks. As I began back to school again, I felt more push than ever to graduate. And so I completed finally my time for my Associate's Degree, and began at USF on my Bachelor's Degree. The more sick my mother became, the more I prayed to God that she would see me graduate. But as time does, it found itself weaving another surprise into our lives, and I found myself pregnant with our third daughter. I'll never forget the day I found out. I was at my mama's and took a pregnancy test. I knew the symptoms. I had a feeling, but I needed the comfort of mama. She waited with me while I took the test, and after I found out it was positive, I found myself in tears. I was so happy, yet discouraged at the thought of having to put school off yet again. Mama looked me in the eye and said, "you have achieved the greatest thing life ever has to offer...being a great mother. School will always be there, whether you graduate at 22 or at 42." I always remember this because she was so right. Looking back on the journey Jon and I have been on for sixteen years, I realize it's not the major stresses that have kept us going or brought us closer. It's the little things, the moments we live for...the times when we didn't give up because life put our dreams on hold. Because the dream is happening everyday that we are together. When my mama was dieing, I felt such heartache knowing she wouldn't see me graduate, and knowing I was losing a best friend. But when she was still able to talk, she held Jon's hand and told him, "thank you for caring so well for my daughter. I know she will be okay because of you." I'll never forget that either. Because as I approach my graduation date, I realize I wouldn't have been able to accomplish anything without him. And I wouldn't have had the push without those special people that made it feel so possible: my mom who I know will walk beside me in spirit that day; my dad who I know will smile in the crowd watching me graduate, just as I know he would've years ago if I'd completed school then; my Uncle Jack and Aunt Bev...for telling me they would always be there for me and proving it to be so in more ways than I could ever pay back; my children...for being so understanding when mama has to study or is just flat out tired; and to Jon...especially Jon who has loved me for all my flaws for sixteen years...the one who I travel with on this journey of life and up and down all the hills it offers still holds my hand and calls me, "my love." And for my angel mama...the one who I know I'll miss terribly when I put on that cap and gown, finally after all these years. I love you all so very much. Thank you.
September 25, 2012
Another lovely children's book author and her lovely books
Here I am again...you know if I'm blogging about books that I've found more books to add to my list of favorites! Not only am I an author and illustrator, but I just so happen to love children's books of all types, and I find reading is so important in the lives of my children, and for that matter the lives of all children. So when I recommend a book, it's because I have totally enjoyed it and want to share it with you. So, with that being said, I announce another wonderful children's book author/illustrator: Joy Findlay. Joy is a mother of two little ones who seem to provide plenty of inspiration for her writings and drawings. From the moment I saw just a book cover of one of her books, I was intrigued. Then when I read the first book of a series entitled, "Princess Kiah," I knew I would love her books. Princess Kiah is a young girl who steps into different stories, and takes you on a sweet ride throughout, while delivering a subtle message along the way. I loved the first one I read, "Princess Kiah and the Frog," so much that I knew I had to read the other two in the series. So, I read "Princess Kiah and the Peas" and "Princess Kiah and the Glass Slipper." After reading the three lovely books, my only hope was that there would be more of this sweet character! With that being said, I discovered that Joy has many books to her name...so I'll look forward to reading those, but I recommend you read these too! Especially if you have a little princess in your house as I do...three in fact in mine. Until next time, happy reading and writing!
September 14, 2012
Friday Freebie!! Enjoy your Friday night with a great read!
It's Friday, and you know that means...free book! Today is the wonderul "Willow" by Amy Richie!
Read an excerpt:
“Being a werewolf is harder than it looks. Everyone thinks it’s just morph at the full moon, kill, morph back. That’s not true. It’s a lot harder than that. Especially if you are seventeen years old.”
Willow has the worst luck. First she has to deal with her narcissistic foster mother, Bella; then of course there’s her horrid little sister Ivy; not to mention the pack of werewolves that belong to Bella. Now, they have to move and start a new school - again.
Just when Willow thinks things can’t get any worse, Blake shows up from a council she never knew existed to name her leader of a pack she never knew existed. How was she supposed to teach a bunch of teenagers how to be wolves when she herself hated everything about her life?
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I know you're intrigued, so allow yourself the pleasure of downloading! But hurry! It's only free til' midnight!!!
Read an excerpt:
“Being a werewolf is harder than it looks. Everyone thinks it’s just morph at the full moon, kill, morph back. That’s not true. It’s a lot harder than that. Especially if you are seventeen years old.”
Willow has the worst luck. First she has to deal with her narcissistic foster mother, Bella; then of course there’s her horrid little sister Ivy; not to mention the pack of werewolves that belong to Bella. Now, they have to move and start a new school - again.
Just when Willow thinks things can’t get any worse, Blake shows up from a council she never knew existed to name her leader of a pack she never knew existed. How was she supposed to teach a bunch of teenagers how to be wolves when she herself hated everything about her life?
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I know you're intrigued, so allow yourself the pleasure of downloading! But hurry! It's only free til' midnight!!!
My newest venture has begun!
I have been so fortunate after years of rejection letters and re-tries to find a place in the publishing world. The first to notice my work was Solstice Publishing, where I still have several book out. Yet every now and then something crosses our path that was even more meant to be than we might realize. I am speaking of my newest venture, and that is the path I am on with Anchor Group Publishing. Had it not been for my author/friend Wendy Nystrom, I would not have known to send in work to Anchor Group, but luckily she always has my back and suggested I send material to them. Even though I have been published now for two years with Solstice, it is still scary to put yourself out there, but I did once again and was more than thrilled when I received an acceptance to become published with Anchor Group. Little did I know, that the journey through Anchor Group would lead me to more happiness in the publishing world than I could have ever dreamed of...and that speaks volumes seeing how my first book with Anchor Group hasn't been released. That's right...this group that includes the lovely Wendy Nystrom is the most supportive, loving and genuine group of people I have ever known in my life. Stacey Rourke, the Publisher and Melissa Ringsted, the editor help to lead each author that enters Anchor Group on a path to success. Authors are booking signings, attending major book expos and finding such happiness...all because Stacey Rourke, who is an author herself of The Gryphon Series, had a dream to create a publishing company different from any other. Point being made, I don't know how I got so lucky to be on this journey. This group inspired me to take some of my illustrations and create greeting cards...they all are an amazing group of people and authors...talented to no end and hearts that I am sure contain gold. Like I said, I'm not sure how I came to deserve being a part of such an amazing group of people, but I hope I am with them forever, and I pray anyone out there working as an author/illustrator finds that pot of gold at the end of the rainbow as I have found.
Take a look at my newest venture: my greeting card line below...and until next time...happy writing!
Browse other gifts from Zazzle.
Take a look at my newest venture: my greeting card line below...and until next time...happy writing!
Browse other gifts from Zazzle.
September 11, 2012
Another wonderful author
I love being an author/illustrator. I love the written word, and how pictures along with those words can bring out amazing sparks within a child's imagination. One of the perks of being an author is being able to meet other authors, and know that they have put heart and soul into thier works. I have been reviewing quite a few books lately, and any time I come across ones I love, I share with you.
Today, I am sharing the books of Sherrill Canon. Sherrill is a retired teacher, and can now call herself an amazing author. She has won numerous awards as a children's book author, and after reading four of her books, I have completely taken to each and every story!
The first book I read is 'The Magic Word.' Though I might say this is my favorite of them all, I enjoyed each one thoroughly. In this book, we meet a young girl, Elisabeth, and learn that with each rhyming word, this young girl was not so gracious. She never said kind words as little ones are supposed to, but finally learns that being gracious is important. I don't want to spoil the book, other than saying it is lovely and I just know you'll love it too. The other books I have read of Sherrill's so far are 'Peter and the Whimpy Whiney's', 'Santa's Birthday Gift' and 'Gimme-Jimmy.' Again, I think the first was my favorite, but I loved them all so much I had to share!!! I'll post the links here, but they are all available on Amazon.
Today, I am sharing the books of Sherrill Canon. Sherrill is a retired teacher, and can now call herself an amazing author. She has won numerous awards as a children's book author, and after reading four of her books, I have completely taken to each and every story!
The first book I read is 'The Magic Word.' Though I might say this is my favorite of them all, I enjoyed each one thoroughly. In this book, we meet a young girl, Elisabeth, and learn that with each rhyming word, this young girl was not so gracious. She never said kind words as little ones are supposed to, but finally learns that being gracious is important. I don't want to spoil the book, other than saying it is lovely and I just know you'll love it too. The other books I have read of Sherrill's so far are 'Peter and the Whimpy Whiney's', 'Santa's Birthday Gift' and 'Gimme-Jimmy.' Again, I think the first was my favorite, but I loved them all so much I had to share!!! I'll post the links here, but they are all available on Amazon.
If you missed this book...it's free again, but only for today so hurry up!
Hello readers! I'll be posting a few reviews today through my blog of great books I've been reading, so get ready for an afternoon of book suggestions!
First, take this opportunity to download the wonderful book, 'Get Psyched' by Janet McLaughlin...the lovely book I have told you about twice now is available again for FREE! How could you not take this opportunity? Download it and read it, and share this info with all of your friends!
http://www.amazon.com/Get-Psyched-ebo...
First, take this opportunity to download the wonderful book, 'Get Psyched' by Janet McLaughlin...the lovely book I have told you about twice now is available again for FREE! How could you not take this opportunity? Download it and read it, and share this info with all of your friends!
http://www.amazon.com/Get-Psyched-ebo...
